Coffee Cake Cookies

I’ve combined two of my favorite desserts into one and made these dreamy coffee cake cookies. They’re made with a cinnamon sugar cookie, filled with a buttery streusel and a drizzle of powdered sugar icing on top. Enjoy with a cup of warm coffee and get ready to fall in love with your new favorite cookie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of cinnamon and buttery streusel creates an irresistible taste.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from cozy family gatherings to festive celebrations.
• Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even beginner bakers can achieve great results.
• Perfect Pairing: These cookies pair wonderfully with coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Beautiful Presentation: Drizzled with icing, these cookies look as good as they taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking, gather the essential tools to make your Coffee Cake Cookies. Having everything at hand will streamline the process and ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats
• Baking sheets
• Rubber spatula
• Cooling rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugars effortless, saving time and energy.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without making a mess; having multiple sizes helps organize your prep.
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mats: Prevent cookies from sticking to the baking sheet, ensuring easy removal and cleanup.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup all purpose flour
• 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp. cinnamon
• pinch salt
• 5 Tbsp. softened butter, unsalted
• 1 1/4 cup all purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• 3/4 cup cake flour, spooned and leveled
• 1 tsp. cornstarch
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. baking soda
• 1/2 tsp. baking powder
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 8 Tbsp. cold butter, unsalted, cut into cubes
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract
• 1 large egg
• 1 large egg yolk
• 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted
• 3 Tbsp. heavy cream or milk
• 1 cup powdered sugar, sifted
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• pinch salt

How to Make Coffee Cake Cookies

Step 1: Prepare the Streusel Filling

In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt together. Work in the softened butter until small clumps form using your fingers to mix it well. Refrigerate while preparing the cookie dough.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper or silicone baking mats to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, cake flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt until well combined.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugars

Place the cubed cold butter along with both sugars into the bowl of your stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment. Mix on medium speed until smooth for about 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Add Egg Mixture

Add in the egg, egg yolk, and vanilla extract into the creamed mixture. Blend until fully mixed. Scrape down sides if needed to ensure everything is well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually add in the dry ingredients mixture about a quarter cup at a time until everything is incorporated smoothly into the dough.

Step 7: Shape Cookie Dough

Scoop out portions of cookie dough and roll them into approximately eight large balls (or smaller if preferred for about twenty-two to twenty-four cookies). Place them on your prepared baking sheets.

Step 8: Create Indents

Make an indent in each cookie dough ball using your thumb or another suitable tool (like a spoon). Lightly dusting it with some flour can help prevent sticking.

Step 9: Fill with Streusel

Spoon about one tablespoon of the chilled streusel filling into each indent on the cookies before placing them in the oven.

Step 10: Bake Cookies

Bake for approximately eight to eleven minutes or until edges are set and lightly golden brown. Remove them just before they seem fully done as they will continue cooking on the sheet afterward.

Step 11: Optional Shaping Technique

To refine their shape after baking, quickly use a circular cookie cutter larger than each cookie while they are still warm. Gently swirl it around each cookie to create perfectly circular treats.

Step 12: Cool Down & Drizzle Icing

Allow cookies to rest on their sheets for about five minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack. Whisk together icing ingredients while waiting; once cooled completely, drizzle over each cookie before serving!

How to Serve Coffee Cake Cookies

Coffee Cake Cookies are delightful treats that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a quiet moment at home, these cookies can be served in styles that enhance their flavor and presentation.

Pair with Coffee

• Enjoy with a steaming cup of coffee for a classic pairing. The rich flavors of the coffee will complement the sweet cinnamon notes in the cookies.

Add Fresh Fruit

• Serve alongside fresh fruit like strawberries or blueberries. The tartness of the fruit balances the sweetness of the cookies perfectly.

Ice Cream Sandwiches

• Transform your Coffee Cake Cookies into ice cream sandwiches by adding a scoop of vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream between two cookies. This makes for a delightful dessert treat.

Garnish with Nuts

• Top each cookie with chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. This simple addition elevates the texture and taste of your cookies.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Arrange cookies on a beautiful platter with other treats such as brownies or mini muffins. This colorful display is perfect for parties and gatherings.

How to Perfect Coffee Cake Cookies

To ensure your Coffee Cake Cookies turn out just right, follow these simple tips that will elevate your baking game.

• Use room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
• Measure flour accurately: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense cookies caused by too much flour.
• Chill the dough: Letting your cookie dough chill for at least 30 minutes helps prevent spreading during baking.
• Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on your cookies; they should be slightly soft in the center when you take them out of the oven, as they will continue to cook on the baking sheet.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of cinnamon or add nutmeg for an extra flavor twist.
• Use high-quality vanilla: A pure vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of your cookies significantly.

Best Side Dishes for Coffee Cake Cookies

Coffee Cake Cookies can be paired with several delicious side dishes that complement their flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad
   A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cookies.

2. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a creamy, crunchy side dish that pairs well with cookies.

3. Cheese Platter
   Offer a selection of cheeses such as brie or cheddar to contrast with the sweetness of the cookies.

4. Chai Tea
   A warm cup of chai tea brings aromatic spices that complement the cinnamon in your cookies beautifully.

5. Nut Mix
   Provide a bowl of mixed nuts as a savory counterpoint, enhancing both texture and flavor in each bite.

6. Mini Muffins
   Serve an assortment of mini muffins, such as blueberry or lemon poppy seed, for variety alongside your Coffee Cake Cookies.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Coffee Cake Cookies can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly skip the chilling: Not refrigerating the streusel filling can lead to a runny texture. Always chill it until firm before using.
• Boldly ignore ingredient temperature: Using cold butter straight from the fridge can affect how well the cookies mix. Ensure your butter is softened for smooth blending.
• Boldly rush baking: Pulling cookies out too soon may leave them undercooked. Bake until edges are set and slightly golden for the best result.
• Boldly over-mixing: Mixing the dough too long can make cookies tough. Blend just until ingredients are combined for a tender bite.
• Boldly overlook measuring: Not leveling flour can result in dry or dense cookies. Always spoon and level your flour for accurate measurements.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cookies in an airtight container.
• They can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Coffee Cake Cookies

• Freeze cookies in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Coffee Cake Cookies

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F and warm cookies for about 5-7 minutes.
• Bold Microwave: Heat one cookie at a time for about 10-15 seconds, checking frequently so they don’t overheat.
• Bold Stovetop: Place cookies in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 1-2 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Coffee Cake Cookies.

Can I use different types of flour in Coffee Cake Cookies?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but this may alter texture slightly. Adjust liquid if needed.

How do I make these cookies vegan?

To make Coffee Cake Cookies vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative and use flax eggs as a substitute for regular eggs.

What is the best way to store leftover Coffee Cake Cookies?

Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Can I freeze Coffee Cake Cookies?

Yes! You can freeze these cookies after baking. Just ensure they’re cooled completely before wrapping them well.

How do I customize my Coffee Cake Cookies?

Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

These Coffee Cake Cookies blend two favorite treats into one irresistible dessert. Their versatility allows you to customize flavors and toppings easily. Whether enjoyed with coffee or as a sweet snack during any season, they are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try today!